Celebrating Achievements and Looking Forward
The AGM brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including our Board of Directors, volunteer committee members, partners and representatives from across Eastern Ontario's Community Futures network. We were honoured to host special guests such as Michael Barrett, MP, Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, Amy McFadden, Manager, Ecosystem Partnerships and Implementation at the Federal Economic Development Agency of Southern Ontario, and clients from our regional Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation program.
Key Highlights of the Day
The event commenced with warm welcomes and introductions by Wendy Stone, Volunteer Board Director of Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation and Chair of CFEO.
MP Michael Barrett, who also serves as the Conservative Shadow Minister for Ethics and Accountable Government, shared insightful opening remarks highlighting the Community Futures Program and our past achievements as well as encouraging everyone to continue to amplify our message and mission in supporting SMEs and local communities.
Amy McFadden, delivered remarks showcasing the impact of the Community Futures Program and the crucial support we provide to SMEs. She highlighted our partnership in driving economic development across Southern Ontario and shared a special message on behalf of The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
Panel Discussion: SOFII Rural Client Success Stories
One of the high points of the day was the engaging Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation (SOFII) panel discussion moderated by Shai Dubey, CFEO Board Director and Chair of the SOFII Investment Review Committee. The panel featured current SOFII Rural Program clients and entrepreneurs, Paul Gardner of Fieldless Farms, Darryl Mitchell of Document Conversion Management (DCM), and David Hyndman of FireRein. All shared their experiences and insights into how the SOFII program has facilitated their innovative ventures.
Recognition and Future Commitments
During our AGM, we took a moment to honour retiring members of the CFEO Board of Directors and the SOFII Investment Review Committee for their dedication and contributions to our community. Special recognition to: Amber Darling, Mary Lynn Rutledge, Tom Russell, Jim Beechey, Eoin Callan, Betty Hunter and Stephanie Lafond. Their service on our Board and Committees has been instrumental in shaping CFEO's impact in Eastern Ontario.
The day concluded with the approval of the Eastern Ontario CFDC Slate of Directors for the 2024-2025 term, highlighting the strong leadership that will guide CFEO in the coming term. Closing remarks were delivered by Tina Stevens, General Manager of Valley Heartland CFDC, and this year's AGM host.
We extend our gratitude to all attendees, partners, and stakeholders who joined us for this event. Together, we continue to build a brighter future for Eastern Ontario.
2023-2024 Annual Report now available
The Annual Report has been created to provide statistics and other information on the work and initiatives the Community Futures Eastern Ontario Network has accomplished during the fiscal year.
Thank you to the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario for their support, CFDCs and to all small businesses in the Eastern Ontario region.